powerful than morphine. The drug is very cheap and is often mixed into heroin potentially resulting in a deadly overdose.
“Fentanyl is a highly toxic and high-risk drug that can cause respiratory distress and cardiac arrest leading to death,” she said. “Parents need to seek information about its use, side effects, interactions and should speak to their children about the volatile nature of its misuse use which can lead to death.”
Educational and life-saving information could save a child from an overdose death, especially if they have been sober from opioids for any period of time because their tolerance has dwindled, which increases their likelihood of an overdose when they take their “usual” dose. Never mixing opioids with other drugs should also be addressed to ensure safety.
Torres said: “Parents should also approach the offspring and let them know that they and their family will support their recovery and will assist in the identification of evidence-based therapies to address their addiction.”
Author: Cesar Gamboa
Cesar Gamboa is a staff reporter and editor for Addiction Now covering topics ranging from legislation to scientific studies. He was previously a general assignment reporter for the Orange County Register. SoCal raised, lover of books, and avid mountain biker (when he wants to be). He can be reached at cesarg@addictionnow.com.
